Redbox Instant: Netflix Competitor Arrives on Android

Redbox has finally unshackled itself from the local kiosk and has moved into online streaming. This was the next logical step for the company but it was unclear on when it would happen. Redbox has partnered with Verizon to bring not only a monthly streaming service but with the advantage of 4 physical DVD rentals at its kiosk. This serves an advantage over its competitor Netflix which has completely separated its DVD and streaming service. Also the Redbox kiosks can be found almost everywhere now and is much faster than Netflix mail delivery.

Luckily Redbox has released their Android app right along with the streaming service. So now you can enjoy movies on your phone or tablet. Currently only movies are available without any TV shows. There is also the issue that it won’t let you run the app on rooted devices. This has caused a serious issues with users and currently the app as a 1.4 star rating. This is most likely due to Verizon which is very anti root users and locks down their phones as well. I think if you are going to be on Android ecosystem then you have to understand that users like to root. That doesn’t mean they are trying to steal or get around anything but just want added options. So hopefully this will get resolved but knowing the reputation of Verizon it might not happen. If you want to try the service then head over to the Redbox website and get you code as the service is in Beta. Then download the app and enjoy movies at home or away on your Android tablet.